Moab's Poison Spider ATV Trail (also know as the Poison Spider Mesa Trail) is one of the most popular trails in the region. It has scenery and obstacles that are are hard to beat on all of the Moab trails. The trail head is located about six miles down on Highway 279 (Potash Road) after turning off of Highway 191 just north of Moab. The parking lot for the trail head is located on the north side of the road and is well marked, has adequate parking for trucks and trailers, has outdoor restrooms, and a dinosaur footprint you can hike to just off the trail head. Most of this trail is marked with white spray painted jeeps sporadically on the rocks.

Poison Spider has become more difficult over the years due to erosion and a lot of OHV use. The beginning part of the trail gains elevation quickly on several switchbacks and steep rocky climbs. There are several obstacles on your way up to the top of the mesa that may take some rope and few spotters for help. Many of the difficult obstacles on this trail have an easier alternative route, but there are a few tricky parts that riders must engage. One of the more popular obstacles is known as the "wedgie" or "chutes" (a "V" formation in the slickrock) that requires even the best riders to concentrate on wheel positioning and balance.

Once on top of the mesa, riders can see incredible views of the Moab area and the beautiful La Sal Mountains. The trail eventually leads you to a gorgeous sandstone arch with views of the Colorado river as you look down through the arch. Be careful, this is a dangerous cliff area with cliffs over 1000 feet. Shortly after the arch there are some great sand trails and one area with a small dune that is fun to play around on. A good map is helpful on top of the mesa as this trail crosses the "Golden Spike" trail and can get a little tricky.

Eventually Poison Spider loops back up with the trail that you rode in and follows the same path back down the mountain.

This is a really fun trail that is a must ride in the Moab area. Pay close attention to the weather as Poison Spider can get very difficult as it gets wet.

Please review our Terms and Conditions before riding this trail and always remember to Tread Lightly.

Sponsored by Moab Valley Inn